MORRIS COUNTY — Homeless Solutions (HSI) grabbed their giant scissors and proudly cut the ribbon for their newest affordable housing project. HSI joined their supporters, as well as federal, state, and local officials to celebrate their new eight-unit property located on Martin Luther King Avenue in Morristown, on Friday, October 25.
“HSI is a leader in affordable housing. The impact on and contributions made to the community are clearly evidenced by its recent projects. Within the last two years, we’ve opened 12 new affordable apartments,” HSI Housing Development Committee Chair Buddy Scott proudly shared.
This project was ideal for HSI. The location is close to amenities including parks, public transit lines, and downtown businesses. And, it provided an opportunity to turn an old, dilapidated building into attractive, affordable apartments, improving the neighborhood.
HSI saw some firsts with this project. It was their first property to offer 4-bedroom apartments. HSI is pleased to be able to provide an option for larger families. It was also their first property built on land shared by two towns – Morristown and Morris Township.
This presented some challenges, but HSI was pleased to have the support from both towns. “I am glad the two municipalities could work together to bring this fantastic project to fruition. HSI is an invaluable resource for many towns and we are grateful for their presence in Morris Township,” Township of Morris Mayor Jeff Grayzel reflected.
Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty concurred and added why HSI is a good partner for the town. “Morristown has a commitment to nonprofits and to preserve and expand a range of housing options for various income levels as part of its larger goal to healthy residential neighborhoods. HSI has shown a proven track record with Morristown in demonstrating project planning, leadership, and completing successful affordable housing projects through a private-public partnership. This fills a critical missing link in the affordable housing community.”
HSI is grateful to community partners, donors, and funders that made this affordable property possible. Not only did they receive grants through the William E. Simon Foundation, TD Foundation, County Home Funds, and Municipal Housing Funds, HSI was awarded the first government housing grant that was offered nationally. The plans for this property were well-aligned with the grant requirements, and HSI was one of only six organizations to receive the National Housing Trust Fund.
HSI looks forward to the next opportunity where they can break out their scissors to provide more homes people can afford.
HSI is a private, nonprofit organization with 36 years of experience meeting the needs of those affected by homelessness in Morris County. With a philosophy of, “A Hand Up, Not a Handout,” HSI’s mission is to offer shelter, services, and supportive housing to homeless and low-income people. There are four Shelter Programs and a Transitional Housing Program to help guests develop the skills to successfully return to independent living. HSI also operates the Mt. Kemble Home for senior women of limited means, and develops and manages affordable housing throughout Morris County. For more information click here.
